Nepal isn’t just the country of mountains or the land of Everest; religiously, it’s where Gautam Buddha was born. Whether a Nepali is Buddhist or from any other religion, they hold a strong connection with Buddhism, and you’ll see that on this 10-day Nepal tour!
Over 8.21% of the total Nepalese population are Buddhists, with Tibetan Buddhism and Newar Buddhism being the most widely practiced forms. In fact, even Hinduism is so closely related to Buddhism that you’ll find a temple next to a stupa in nearly every place you visit.
Throughout the country, there are countless chaityas and gompas. Among them, the most sacred ones are located within the Kathmandu Valley or along its outskirts. The major highlights include the UNESCO World Heritage Sites—Boudhanath and Swayambhunath.
But Kathmandu isn’t the only place you’ll explore on this Buddhist Cultural Tour. Altitude Himalaya is definitely taking you to Lumbini and Pokhara as well.
Now, allow us to explain why these places would be a perfect fit for the 10-day Buddhist Cultural Tour in Nepal:
Enjoy Spiritual Vibe at BOUDHANATH STUPA
Boudhanath Stupa is the perfect Buddhist pilgrimage site where one can experience total spiritual tranquility. In Mahayana Buddhism, it’s believed that the mandala-structure of Boudha symbolizes the path to enlightenment.
There are over 50 monasteries within the region itself, and it is, without a doubt, the heart of Tibetan Buddhist culture. When here, you’ll find yourself surrounded by people performing rituals, monks deep in prayer, and people practicing the kora walk (circumambulation of the stupa).
Among all, the main highlight of Boudhanath Stupa has to be the Buddha’s all-seeing eyes, which are believed to symbolize wisdom and compassion. The cultural richness of this site makes it the first place to visit on your Nepal Buddhist Cultural Tour.
Experience Monastic Life at KOPAN MONASTERY
Kopan Monastery, often referred to as Kapan Gumba, is another pilgrimage site among Tibetan Buddhists. Particularly, those interested in the Gelug tradition are highly recommended to pay a visit here.
You get a glimpse of daily monastic life, along with insights into Buddhist philosophy, meditation, and ethics. The cherry on top is that you get to enjoy the majestic view of Kathmandu.
The monastery carries a rich history. While it used to be open to the general public more than a decade ago, that is no longer the case. You’ll now need a special permit to show that you’re genuinely here to learn about the Buddhist culture.
Visit Women-Led Monastic Community at NAGI GUMBA
Located in the middle of Shivapuri peak, Nagi Gumba doesn’t just serve as the perfect viewpoint of Kathmandu, but also holds great Buddhist cultural value. Reportedly, hundreds of female monks (nuns) reside here, learning the teachings of Gautam Buddha.
Along with witnessing the presence of women monastics in Nagi Gumba, you can participate in prayer sessions yourself. And since you’ll also indulge in a short hike from Budhanilkantha, your journey will involve both nature and faith.
Witness Sacred Serenity at Namobuddha Monastery
Namobuddha Monastery holds deep historical and spiritual significance. The story of the Buddha here, who selflessly allowed his own body to be fed to a hungry tiger, reflects a profound act of compassion and sacrifice.
Built to dedicate to the Buddha, this Thrangu Tashi Yangtse Monastery is home to hundreds of monks engaged in daily study, prayer, and ritual practice. And if you’re someone who wants to immerse yourself in meditation and spiritual connection, Namo Buddha serves as the perfect go-to spot.
Explore Caves and Monasteries in PHARPING
The major highlight when visiting Pharping on this Nepal Buddhist Cultural Tour is the Neydo Tashi Choling Monastery. It’s a sacred site associated with Neydo Khen Rinpoche, a respected figure in the Neydo Kagyu lineage of Tibetan Buddhism.
Besides, this trip to Pharping also takes you to the Asura Cave, where Guru Rinpoche (Padmasambhava) is believed to have attained enlightenment. He is the revered master credited with bringing Buddhism to Tibet.
Moreover, we can also arrange for you to visit nearby holy sites like Benchen Sungrab Gyunpel Khang, Nepal Jonang Buddhist Institute, Manjushri Di-Chen Buddhist Learning Center, Shakhya Tharig Monastery, Ralo Monastery, and more.
There’s also the Shree Vajrayogini Temple, whose proximity to the monasteries in Pharping highlights how closely Buddhism and Hinduism are interrelated.
Praise the Architectural Beauty of WHITE GUMBA
The Druk Amitabha Monastery in the Nagarjun municipality of Kathmandu is a unique spiritual site for the Drukpa Kagyu lineage. Beyond its religious significance, the place reflects values of compassion and environmentalism.
Our favorite thing about White Gumba (locally referred to as Seto Gumba) is its unique architecture and peaceful environment. In fact, the place has also become a hub for female monastics who are actively engaged in promoting eco-activism, gender equality, and social welfare.
However, these days, Druk Amitabha Monastery is only open to visitors on specific days. So, you’ll only be able to visit this Buddhist site if you’re lucky enough.
Pray with a View at SWAYAMBHUNATH STUPA
Swayambhunath Stupa is one of the oldest and most sacred buddhist sites in Nepal for both Newar and Tibetan Buddhist practitioners. And just like Boudhanath, this mandala-shaped stupa features Buddha’s all-seeing eyes, reflecting the path to enlightenment.
Moreover, it’s also known as the ‘self-existent’ one, showcasing the perfect blend of Buddhist and Hindu elements. Right in front of the Mahachaitya is the Harati Ajima Temple, believed to be the guardian of Swayambhu.
Along with learning about Buddhist culture, this sacred site offers 360-degree views of the Kathmandu Valley. During winter, you’ll even get to witness different mountains, such as Langtang Himal, Ganesh Himal, Gaurishankar, and more.
Explore Different Monuments in Birthplace of Buddha, LUMBINI
When it comes to Buddhism and Nepal, the first place that probably comes to mind is Lumbini, right? This sacred site hardly needs an introduction, as it is the birthplace of Gautam Buddha.
During the cultural tour of Lumbini, you’ll visit the Maya Devi Temple, World Peace Pagoda, External Peace Flame, Royal Thai Monastery, Bodhi Tree, and many other notable attractions.
The Maya Devi Temple features the Marker Stone, the Nativity Sculpture, and the structural ruins of the ancient temple, which are all evidence confirming that Gautam Buddha was born in Nepal.
Besides that, Lumbini is also home to several international monasteries and temples, inspired by Buddhist monuments from other countries such as India, Thailand, Sri Lanka, Myanmar, and more.
Learn About Buddha’s Past Life at TILAURAKOT
For those willing to learn more about Siddhartha Gautam, Tilaurakot was his hometown for 29 years. Essentially, it’s the site where Prince Siddhartha lived before becoming the Buddha.
Here, you’ll explore the ancient city’s remains, which include palace foundations, gates, stupas, and ancient city walls. It’s less touristic compared to Lumbini and offers a more intimate exploration of Buddha’s past life.
While Tilaurakot might not be on the list of World Heritage Sites, it's on the list of UNESCO tentative sites since 1996.
Soak in Peace at Pokhara’s WORLD PEACE PAGODA
The World Peace Pagoda is far more than just another Buddhist site in Pokhara, Nepal. It’s meant to unite people regardless of their sex, religion, caste, race, or any other form of discrimination.
Besides experiencing inner tranquility, this place offers the best views of Pokhara City and Phewa Lake. In its quiet atmosphere, you can even practice meditation and yoga, which are quite popular here.
From the World Peace Pagoda, Altitude Himalaya has arranged a hiking experience that takes you directly to Phewa Lake. So, this single place will offer you so many memorable moments that you’ll thank us for including it in this Buddhist Cultural Tour package.
Unwind with Himalayan Views at MATEPANI MONASTERY
Located around five kilometers northeast of Pokhara city, Matepani Monastery is one of the most underrated Buddhist sites. Here, you get to witness the daily chanting, study sessions, and rituals of over 250 monks and nuns.
Also, the colorful thangka paintings, mandalas, and multiple statues related to different bodhisattvas clearly establish this monastery as an architectural masterpiece.
What’s even more interesting is that you can indulge yourself in language classes and cultural workshops here.
Discover Tibetan Culture at JANGCHUB CHOELING MONASTERY
Another Buddhist religious site you’ll visit in Pokhara is the Jangchub Choeling Monastery, which houses and preserves a large collection of Kagyu texts and Tengyur.
It even features a 7-foot tall Buddha statue, more than 1,000 small Buddha figures, paintings related to Nirvana, and other incredible architectural details!
Just like the other sites you’ll visit on this Buddhist Cultural Tour, Jangchub Choeling Monastery also has a prayer hall. So, if you’re interested, don’t hesitate to join the monks.
What Else to Expect on This Trip?
This 10-day Nepal Buddhist Cultural Tour doesn’t just take you to the most religious and sacred sites, but also to vacation spots for relaxation. While our focus is definitely to make this trip educational, there must be equal time for relaxation, right?
With that said, here are the other activities you’ll enjoy on this Nepal trip (which is absolutely customizable, by the way):
- An overnight stay in Dhulikhel: Experience breathtaking sunrises and sunsets over the clouds, just 30 km from the capital city.
- Boating or kayaking experience on Phewa Lake: You won’t just walk along the Lakeside, you’ll explore the entire lake in a kayak, rowboat, or SUP, depending on your choice.
- Cultural shopping: On your final day in Kathmandu, you can shop for numerous Buddhist-themed souvenirs, like Thangka paintings, Mala beads, Buddha statues, Tibetan singing bowls, prayer wheels, and more!
- Cultural dinner: Organized by Altitude Himalaya, your farewell dinner will feature a cultural program where you’ll have the chance to meet people from different ethnic groups.
10 KM